CAMPUS CONFIDENTIAL: USC vs. Arizona

Southern California wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

WEEK 8: USC vs. Arizona

The Trojans staked their claim as contenders in the Pac-12 with a blowout win over Arizona in front of their hometown Los Angeles crowd. Leading the charge was wide receiver Michael Pittman, who possess ideal size, along with smooth route running and yards after catch ability. There are various elements of finesse and physicality to his overall game, along with the emergence of his red zone effectiveness—Pittman would catch his fifth touchdown of the year in this contest. Coaches have noted an added sense of maturity about Pittman during his senior season, making him a potential day two selection come April.

One of the best kept secrets in college football is Arizona defensive back, Chase Whittaker, who has had success starting at cornerback but has made a seamless transition to safety this season. Blessed with a lean frame and excellent flexibility, Whittaker plays a tremendous centefield, covering plenty of ground and swarms to the football—often times delivering a strong blow. He also demonstrated the vertical game to play above the rim and contested several jump balls. With his versatility, alertness, ball-skills and anticipation, Whittaker will be a great asset for any defensive coordinator to work with.

A pleasant surprise in this game was the play of USC linebacker John Houston Jr., who constantly finished up around the ball and/or making the play. Houston has a lean frame and looks like he could possibly play safety but his ball pursuit, angles, tenacity and participation on multiple special teams units stood out. By the end of the night, JHJ would finish with eight tackles, including two and a half for loss (one and a half sacks) and a fumble recovery.

*Make sure you tune-in to the NFLPA Bowl Big Board Show, each week on iTunes!

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/all-access-football-podcast-network/id283307599

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CAMPUS CONFIDENTIAL: Fresno State vs. UNLV

UNLV offensive lineman Justin Polu (AP Photo/Eugene Tanner)

WEEK 8: Fresno State vs. UNLV

In Mountain West action, the Fresno State offense provided more fireworks than the Fourth of July with a 56-27 win over UNLV, which was coming off an upset win over Vanderbilt. One player for the Rebels who showed his toughness with stout play at the point of attack and the ability to win the leverage battle in the trenches was offensive lineman Justin Polu. With more than 40 career starts at both right guard and tackle, Polu has proven extremely durable during his time in Las Vegas. The square-framed, powerful run-mauler could become the first UNLV player selected in the NFL Draft since Joe Hawley (Falcons) in 2009.

For the Bulldogs offense, tight end Jared Rice helped pave the way for a big touchdown run, making a clutch block and showing excellent leg drive in his blocking technique. He would also add a 12-yard touchdown reception of his own later on in the game, displaying solid route running and dependable hands.

Looking the part of a Sunday player was Fresno State hybrid edge/linebacker Mykal Walker, who posses a strong, muscular frame and does an excellent job converting his speed to power. In addition to owning an impressive combination of strength and athleticism, he also played on special teams, adding an extra element of value in the eyes of pro evaluators. Walker has started at multiple spots this season, but due to his lateral quickness and versatility, he could best be suited at middle linebacker in the NFL.

*Make sure you tune-in to the NFLPA Bowl Big Board Show, each week on iTunes!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/all-access-football-podcast-network/id283307599

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CAMPUS CONFIDENTIAL: Stanford vs. UCLA

UCLA RB Joshua Kelley (AP Photo/Ben Margot)

WEEK 8: Stanford vs. UCLA

The winds in Palo Alto were a precursor to the gusting defense that UCLA brough into Stanford Stadium in this Pac-12, California rivalry. For the Cardinal, running back Cameron Scarlett did his best to keep the chains moving behind an inexperienced offensive line. While his effort might not show up in the box score, Scarlett impressed scouts with his ability to pick up the blitz and had a nice catch out of the backfield. His multi-faceted skill set will make him an appealing prospect at the next level.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, Bruins running back Joshua Kelley ran for a season-high 176 yards, including a 54-yard touchdown scamper. Kelley, who possesses thick, powerful thighs and strong legs, showcased his ability to rip through arm tackles. There were multiple occasions where he would take a tiny opening and bust through the hole for a big play gain. The team captain has also been praised by his coaches for a renowned maturity during his senior season.

On defense, linebacker Krys Barnes made multiple stops, finishing with five tackles on the evening, while demonstrating excellent read and react instincts. His ability to sniff out the run and adapt well to picking up receivers were admirable. In addition, his high motor, aggressiveness and active hands are all positive attributes that will endear him to NFL teams.

*Make sure you tune-in to the NFLPA Bowl Big Board Show, each week on iTunes!

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/all-access-football-podcast-network/id283307599

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2019 Collegiate Bowl NFL Tracker: Week 7

Every week during the NFL regular season, we will track notable performances by NFL players who participated in the Collegiate Bowl. Here are the top performers from week 7:

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CAMPUS CONFIDENTIAL: Alabama vs. Texas A&M

Alabama defensive lineman Raekwon Davis (AP Photo/Vasha Hunt)

WEEK 7: Alabama vs. Texas A&M

For Alabama, it’s not unusual for its top talent to declare for the NFL as underclassmen, so they typically are not heavy with senior players. On offense, tackle Matt Womack is the only senior listed on their two-deep and, despite starting earlier in the season, he served as a back-up versus the Aggies. Womack looks the full part of his listed 6-7, 325-pound frame, and likely could start on many D-1 lines. There have been some intimations out of Coach Nick Saban’s mouth that finishing blocks may be a reason for going with a younger starter over Womack, but our Collegiate Bowl scouts will be sure to follow the developments and track the talented senior’s status.

Defensively, the Tide have some specimens at every level who look like they could line up on Sunday as is. Up front, starting DL Raekwon Davis is a powerful, powerful man with rare length for the position and the ability to consistently get “knock back” upon engaging blockers. While not always showing up with splashy numbers on the stat sheet, Davis is the type of player who possesses scheme diversity to play in any NFL defense and is the rugged type of prospect that DL coaches would love to work with.

Starting at the Tide’s “Jack” position is the team-leader in sacks, Anfernee Jennings. While he starts at the OLB position when the team is in base, Jennings has the versatility to affect the passer as a DE in nickel defense. Jennings possesses solid overall length to complement his power play style – attributes that make him particularly effective setting the edge versus the run and being able to get good push on the pocket versus the pass.

In the secondary, starting cornerback Trevon Diggs is a versatile athlete who leads the team in both interceptions and kickoff return average. Against the Aggies, Alabama amassed an astounding 10 passes defensed, with Diggs recording two while using his long, 6-1 height and 32.5-inch arms well. In a game of inches, Diggs’ physical traits help him match up with big, outside wide receivers.

Behind him at the safety positions are two senior starters in Jared Mayden and Shyheim Carter. For Carter, he is an active player who plays both down near the line of scrimmage as well as over slot receivers, which is partly why his name appears often on the stat sheet. Carter is a leader on this team, graduated in three years, and is interested in getting into coaching when his playing career concludes. For Mayden, he oftentimes is playing as the deep “Post” safety or over the top of one side, where he can utilize his range to either double or single-handedly carry receivers. Another heady player in the secondary, Mayden knows all the DB position responsibilities and is spoken of very highly by this coaching staff.

We previously covered the senior prospects of Texas A&M, but it is worth mentioning that Braden Mann – the highest rated punter entering the year by scouting services – had a particularly impressive day while booming his four punts for nearly 200 air yards and making three tackles (officially credited for two).

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CAMPUS CONFIDENTIAL: Utah vs. Oregon State

Utah RB Zach Moss (AP Photo/Chris Pietsch)

WEEK 7: Utah vs. Oregon State

Once again, Utah running back Zack Moss put on a show, gaining 121 rushing yards on five carries and two touchdowns, including a 91-yard scamper in which he outran the entire Beavers defense. His vision, speed and strong frame, along with dependable hands out of the backfield, make Moss one of the premier running back prospects in 2020.

The Utes dominated the line of scrimmage. Paving the way for Moss up front on offense was left tackle Darrin Paulo, who demonstrated a run-mauling tenacity that will be endearing to NFL scouts, along with his long arms, sound technique and special teams experience.

On defense, Leki Fotu generated a strong push, as he was able to win the leverage battle in the trenches. He’s nimble for a big man and was able to slide through blocks. On other occasions, he ate up bodies so that his backers could step up and make the play.

The Oregon State Beavers have a big man who also garners attention, as team captain Blake Brandel has earned a reputation for his great leadership and toughness. With his combination of size and strength, plus experience playing both tackle positions, Brandel is a very under the radar NFL prospect.

*The ninth annual NFLPA Collegiate Bowl is just three months away! Make sure you’re there on Saturday, January 18th, 2020 at the historic Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, or tune in on NFL Network.

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CAMPUS CONFIDENTIAL: Oregon vs. Colorado

Oregon QB Justin Herbert (AP Photo/Chris Pietsch)

Week 7: Oregon vs. Colorado

Plenty of NFL personnel were in attendance to get an up-close look at quarterback Justin Herbert, who didn’t disappoint. The Ducks signal-caller flashed his quick release, strong arm and ability to make all the throws, guiding the offense to six scores on the evening, including two touchdown passes. It was Herbert’s 34th consecutive game with a touchdown. His experience, quick decision-making and improved accuracy could make him the number one overall pick come April.

The first touchdown the day came courtesy of a dart delivered by Herbert to Oregon tight end Jacob Breeland, who found an open patch of green in the corner of the end zone. It was a busy night for Breeland, who was moved around the field on offense and utilized in an array of ways. He also exemplified high effort when blocking, before suffering an injury that held him out of the second half.

While Colorado had a rough game, linebacker Davion Taylor flashed some positives, including his hustle play to run down Oregon running back CJ Verdell from behind and save a touchdown. Considering his record-setting track background, that comes to no surprise for Taylor, who is viewed as a hybrid type who could play linebacker or safety at the next level and was in on multiple special teams units.

*The ninth annual NFLPA Collegiate Bowl is just three months away! Make sure you’re there on Saturday, January 18th, 2020 at the historic Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, or tune in on NFL Network.

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NFLPA COLLEGIATE BOWL TO AIR LIVE ON NFL NETWORK THROUGH 2024

For Immediate Release
October 16, 2019
Media Contacts:
NFLPA
Carl Francis | Director of Communications
Carl.Francis@nflpa.com | 202-756-9169
NFL Media
Andrew Howard | Communications Manager
Andrew.Howard@NFL.com | 310-845-4579

 

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The NFL Players Association and NFL Media have agreed to a multi-year deal to broadcast the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl live on NFL Network. With this new partnership, the NFLPA’s all-star college showcase will air exclusively on the year-round network home of the NFL through 2024.

The ninth annual NFLPA Collegiate Bowl is scheduled for a 4 p.m. PST/7 p.m. EST kickoff on January 18, 2020 at the historic Rose Bowl Stadium in California.

“We are excited for the opportunity to continue growing the audience of our game with NFL Network, which has become the number one source for all things football,” said Teri Smith, NFLPA Collegiate Bowl director and acting COO of the NFLPA. “Our goal has always been to provide NFL prospects and future members with maximum support and exposure. This partnership is an extension of that mission.”

“We are thrilled to be the official broadcast home of the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl and to continue to showcase the next generation of NFL athletes,” said Hans Schroeder, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of NFL Media. “Broadcasting the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl live on NFL Network presents a great opportunity to add to our growing footprint in the college game, including regular season Conference USA games as well as all-star games such as the Senior Bowl and East-West Shrine Bowl.”

Live practice coverage will be aired in the week leading up to the game and relevant content will be featured across NFL Media’s various platforms – all of which will highlight the week-long experience that serves to educate participants about the business of football and provide them with resources to succeed at the next level.

Founded in 2012, the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl gives prospective players the best opportunity to showcase their talents to potential employers and fans. Nearly 200 scouts, player personnel staff, general managers and head coaches from all 32 NFL teams are expected be in attendance to watch live practices, conduct player interviews and review tape.

For the latest news and updates on the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl, visit the game’s website at http://collegiate.nflpa.com/ and follow @NFLPABowl on Twitter and Instagram.

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About the NFL Players Association:
The National Football League Players Association is the union for professional football players in the National Football League. Established in 1956, the NFLPA has a long history of assuring proper recognition and representation of players’ interests. The NFLPA has shown that it will do whatever is necessary to assure that the rights of players are protected—including ceasing to be a union, if necessary, as it did in 1989. In 1993, the NFLPA again was officially recognized as the union representing the players, and negotiated a landmark Collective Bargaining Agreement with the NFL. The current CBA will govern the sport through 2020. Learn more at www.nflpa.com.

About NFL Media:
NFL Media is comprised of NFL Network, NFL Films, NFL.com, the NFL app and NFL RedZone.
Seven days a week, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, fans turn to NFL Network to receive information and insight straight from the field, team headquarters, league offices and everywhere the NFL is making news. Launched in 2003, NFL Network gives fans unprecedented year-round inside access to all NFL events, including the Super Bowl, Playoffs, regular season, preseason, Pro Bowl, Pro Football Hall of Fame induction weekend, NFL Draft, NFL Scouting Combine, Senior Bowl, league meetings, minicamps and training camps.
For fans on the go, all NFL Network programming can be streamed live through the NFL and NFL Network apps on smartphones, tablets, PCs and connected TV devices (Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV, PlayStation 4, Roku and Xbox One). Access is available for NFL Network subscribers of participating TV providers. For more information, go to NFL.com/nflnetwork. For NFL Network audio programming, download the TuneIn app.

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CAMPUS CONFIDENTIAL: Ohio State vs. Michigan State

Michigan State’s Kenny Willekes (AP Photo/Al Goldis)

WEEK 6: Ohio State vs. Michigan State

In the famed ‘Shoe’ of Ohio State, there was enough NFL talent on the field to write a column on each team. Since I’ll be seeing Ohio State later in the season, however, Michigan State will be the focus here.

On offense, I really wanted to watch QB Brian Lewerke go on the road in a very hostile environment and see how well he reacted to all that the Buckeyes would throw at him. I came away impressed despite the outcome of the game, really appreciating his ability to extend plays with his legs and locating secondary targets downfield. While Lewerke’s arm strength is more on the above average side and he doesn’t always throw tight spirals, he has enough arm talent to make tight-window NFL throws, and his athleticism is a real asset that will enable him to compete for a backup roster position. One player who made a couple nice seal blocks for Lewerke is TE Matt Seybert, who’s played both offense and defense for the Spartans in his career. The former Buffalo Bull has a nice combination of size and athleticism along with an ability to run easy as evidenced on his two receptions for 37 yards in the game.

Leading the team in receptions, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns was WR Darrell Stewart who plays as a big-slot for the Spartans. Stewart – who isn’t an explosive speed athlete – is an instinctive player who understands the nuances of route running and how to subtly separate from defenders. In addition, he’s a very passionate player who brought great energy to the field in pregame and during the game, and demonstrated outstanding toughness working over the middle and in traffic, including on his second-quarter TD reception.

On defense for Michigan State, the Spartans have three NFL prospects up front in DE Kenny Willekes, DT Mike Panasiuk and NG Raequan Williams – all of whom tallied at least 7 tackles in the game. Willekes owns good size as a 4-3 DE prospect and plays with his hair on fire —  numerous times in the game he was in the backfield either pressuring Ohio State QB Justin Fields or wreaking havoc versus the run.
Williams led all three of these guys with his eight tackles, and he is a thickly built man who has some position flexibility to also play as a 3-technique over Guards.
Panasiuk – who I like better as a NG playing as a shade over the center – is a strong player who plays bigger than his listed size of 6-4, 290 would indicate, and he made plays on the opposing side of the line of scrimmage while recording a sack and 3.5 tackles for loss.

At the second level, middle linebacker Joe Bachie made his presence felt very early in the game, recording a sack on the third play of the game and adding a second later in first quarter. Bachie is a very smart and instinctive football player who’s able to play faster than he may time in the 40 in the spring, and his production as a 3-year starter for Michigan State is impressive.

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CAMPUS CONFIDENTIAL: Cincinnati vs. Central Florida

Cincinnati Bearcats tight end Josiah Deguara (AP Photo/Tony Tribble)

WEEK 6: Cincinnati vs. Central Florida

In a primetime matchup of two aspiring AAC teams, there were several NFL prospects on the field at Nippert Stadium. For the hometown Bearcats of Cincinnati, tight end Josiah Deguara showed his grit and determination early and often in the game. Although built more like a fullback while standing around 6-2 ½  and possessing a thicker frame, Deguara led the team in receptions and receiving yards while ripping off an explosive 22-yard gain. There is some real momentum building behind Deguara in the scouting community, and it’s easy to project the physical and relentless aspects of his game translating well to the NFL as a role player on offense and mainstay on special teams.

On defense for Cincinnati, two linebacker prospects showed well in Perry Young and Bryan Wright. Young – who stands 5-10 – is easy to discount based on his height; but once the ball is snapped, he only knows one speed – 100 mph! Wright is a good-looking prospect physically and plays hard as well. The former Jireh Prep star is still relatively new to the position after playing QB in high school. And while he needs to improve his hand usage and quick shed-ability, he displays the size, range and toughness that the NFL covets for developmental players.

Central Florida offensive lineman Jordan Johnson (72) (AP Photo/John Raoux)

For the Golden Knights offense, center Jordan Johnson displayed his athleticism while working nicely on combos to the second level. Johnson is a stockier framed interior blocker with a nice combination of size and foot quickness, but he needs to improve his snap accuracy and velocity in order to succeed at the next level. Also on offense, RB Adrian Killings flashed some speed and foot quickness as well on his limited carries in the game, and then ripped off a big second quarter kickoff return. While kickoff return ability has diminished in recent years with the new NFL touchback rules, Killings’ stop/restart and long-speed are assets of his that he’ll try to showcase to teams in the Spring.

On defense, cornerback Nevelle Clarke held up on the outside nicely versus the Bearcats. Although seldom targeted, he shut down down the pass on the few occasions the ball did come his way. Clarke – who stands 6-1 and possesses 32” arms – is a prototypical press-man CB prospect who I expect will be coveted by teams that play the Seattle Cover-3 scheme. It will be important for Clarke to time well in the 40 as well as in the short-shuttle during the spring.

EXTRA POINT

We also drove up the road to Dayton, Ohio to take a look at TE prospect Adam Trautman in the Flyers’ matchup vs Jacksonville University. Trautman is a former QB turned TE who possesses good size and athleticism to factor into the passing game. While his long-speed is a bit in question, the Houston native displays solid understanding of route running and technique to help create some separation from defenders – aspects that generally college players need time in developing when they transition to the NFL. Trautman is an intriguing small-school prospect who should have a chance to have his name called early on Day 3 of the draft.

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